9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Angouleme, Orléans, Paris, Angers, and Bordeaux
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Pau, Angouleme, Amboise, Orléans, Paris, Angers, Bordeaux, and Bizanos. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Pau, 1 night in Angouleme, 1 night in Orléans, 2 nights in Paris, 1 night in Angers, and 1 night in Bordeaux. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Pau, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Champ De Mars, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sacré-cœur.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pau, Angouleme, Amboise, Orléans, Paris, Angers, Bordeaux, and Bizanos, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Arrival day
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- place Clémenceau
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Welcome to Pau, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Pau's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Pau is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Place Clémenceau, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pau. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Pau, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Henri IV, an iconic dining spot in Pau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Garage, a popular restaurant in Pau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Fin Gourmet, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Snug, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Winfield Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Galway also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Angoulême
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Drive 332 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Funicular
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
- Parc Beaumont
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Pau, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Angouleme. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Pau, including a tramway, a museum, and a park. Start your day at Funiculaire De Pau. This eye-catching tramway is an up-and-coming place to see in Pau. Then, wander over to Musée Des Beaux-arts De Pau. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parc Beaumont. This mesmerizing park is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Angouleme. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Angouleme's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Angoulême
- Orléans
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Drive 367 km, 4 hours 25 min
- Château de Chenonceau
- Château d'Amboise
- Château du Clos Lucé
- L'Ile d'Or
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On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Orléans, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Angouleme on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating castle, Château De Chenonceau. Afterward, continue to Château D'amboise, a château every traveler should visit.
As you explore Angouleme’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Château Du Clos Lucé. This notable museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to L'ile D'or, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Orléans, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Orléans. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant des Plantes, a highly-rated dining destination in Orléans. If you're eager to try something different, consider Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Paul & Juliette. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Orléans this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Le Moog, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Java Pop is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Charbon ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Say good night to Orléans and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Orléans
- Paris
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Jardin des plantes
- Musée d'Orsay
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This interesting botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Musée D'orsay, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Place De La Concorde, one of the most impressive places to see in Orléans. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Tuileries Garden. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Louvre Museum, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Paris. Paris offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café De Paris V, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dirty Dick provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Red Door offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5
- Paris
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Sacré-cœur is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most globally renowned places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Palais Garnier, a captivating opera house, known for its culturally significant features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Arc De Triomphe. This romantic monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Eiffel Tower and Champ De Mars. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Boucan is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mamie Paris ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Paris
- Angers
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Drive 297 km, 3 hours 18 min
- The Centre Pompidou
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Centre Georges Pompidou, an impressive art museum in the city. Then, head to Notre-dame De Paris and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped church.
There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Panthéon. This is one of the city’s most popular picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the widely recognized Jardin Du Luxembourg.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Angers. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Angers, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Wallaby's Australian Café, a popular restaurant in Angers. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Angers at La Cour - Angers, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Brasserie de la Gare. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Angers tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Snooker offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Velenjak is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 7
- Angers
- Bordeaux
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Drive 401 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Angers Cathedral
- Château d'Angers
- Park Ardoisières
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Angers. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting Angers Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Château D'angers, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned castle renowned for its visually striking features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Brun, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Mushroom Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whose Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Bordeaux
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 223 km, 2 hours 38 min
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pau. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Jardin Public is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most well-known places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Monument Aux Girondins, an underrated monument, known for its awe-inspiring features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Bordeaux Cathedral. This history-steeped church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Pau. Pau offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Resto Dit Vin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant L' Ardoise? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Little Monkey Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 9
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Departure day
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- Kofu Japanese Garden
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pau before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Kofu Japanese Garden. This beloved botanical garden is a popular place to see in the town.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pau's best shopping area, Quartier du Hédas. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pau.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at m Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maynats? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Pau. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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